By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 30: In a digital landscape where information can spread instantly without proper verification, journalism continues to serve as a critical safeguard for facts, context, and accountability.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, said journalism plays an essential role in ensuring the public receives accurate, authentic, and responsible information.
He noted that while anyone can now share content through various digital platforms, journalists remain vital in verifying facts, confirming information with credible sources, and ensuring balanced reporting.
“In today’s social media era, anyone can become an information provider. News, images and videos can be spread across the world in just a few seconds.
“However, the speed of information dissemination does not necessarily guarantee its accuracy and truthfulness. This is where the true value of journalism lies,” he said in his message in conjunction with National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) on Friday (May 29).
Abdullah said that in an environment where social media is often filled with claims, speculation and unverified content, journalists continue to serve as a trusted filter of information for the public.
He added that ethical journalism is crucial in countering fake news, defamation and information manipulation that could undermine social harmony.
He also emphasised the role of journalists as a bridge between the people and policymakers, amplifying public concerns while helping to explain government policies and initiatives.
“This role is becoming increasingly important in an ever more complex world, especially as society faces issues related to the economy, technology, cybersecurity, climate change and development that require accurate, fact-based explanations,” he said.
Abdullah further noted that although communication technologies continue to evolve, the core principles of journalism remain unchanged as long as society values truth, transparency and accountability.
He therefore called on all parties to uphold responsible media freedom, strengthen journalistic integrity and ensure journalism continues to be respected as a key pillar of a democratic society.
He also extended his appreciation to media practitioners, including journalists, photographers, videographers, editors and other media workers, for their dedication in delivering information to the public.
“Thank you for your dedication, courage and commitment in delivering news for the benefit of society and the country,” he said. — DayakDaily
